Who says you can’t talk about race, religion and gender?

How do you guys feel about book clubs? I’ve never really belonged to one, well at least not beyond reading the first book. Since moving to Portland, I’ve been checking out different groups to meet people to build up my tribe.

It’s important for me to have a tribe, a group of good friends who are there for you, are honest with you, even if it’ll make you mad, and really just love you unconditionally. My friend Patti mentioned she was going to ask her … Read more ...

Meet the Author: Jessica Vealitzek talks up her new book, how to write a novel as SAHM and getting published

Tuesday is the big day! It’s the big launch of my friend’s first novel, “The Rooms Are Filled.”

My friend's beautifully written novel.

My friend’s beautifully written novel.

It’s a touching story of a young boy who was forced to leave his family farm after his father suddenly dies and his mom can’t afford to keep the land. They move to suburban Chicago and he struggles to adjust to a very different environment. That same struggle is taking place with his young, closeted teacher and they form a beautiful bond.… Read more ...